Abstract
Quality control on second-generation lithotripters has received scant attention in the medical literature. Serial acoustic output measurements were performed on both shock heads of the Siemens lithotripter (Lithostar and Lithostar Plus) in Bristol to identify any variation in the shock wave parameters during the lifetime of the shock head. This testing confirmed a drop in output to less than 50% of the original output on several occasions. The lifetime of the shock head was quite variable, ranging from 37,000 to 727,000 shocks. Serial acoustic output measurements should be mandatory on commercial lithotripters if quality assurance is to be maintained.
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